How Many Net Carbs Are in 3 Slices of Bacon?

November 29, 2025 •

4 min read

According to USDA data, a typical serving of three pan-fried slices of regular pork bacon contains just 0.6 grams of total carbohydrates. This means the net carbs are also extremely low, making it a very popular food choice for those following ketogenic or low-carb diet protocols.

Quick Summary

An average serving of three slices of cooked pork bacon contains less than 1 gram of net carbs, making it suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets. The low carbohydrate content is due to the curing and processing of the meat, but consumers should check labels for added sugars.

Key Points

Minimal Net Carbs: A typical serving of three slices of bacon contains less than 1 gram of net carbs, making it very suitable for low-carb and keto diets.
Total vs. Net Carbs: Since bacon contains no dietary fiber or sugar alcohols, its total carbohydrate count is the same as its net carb count.
Check for Added Sugar: Always check the nutrition label for flavored or sweetened varieties, as some may contain added sugar that can increase the carb content.
Cooking Method Affects Fat: How you cook bacon affects its fat and calorie content, but not its carb level. Microwaving generally results in the leanest slices.
Portion Control is Key: While low in carbs, bacon is high in fat and sodium, so moderation is important for overall health.
No Fiber Content: Bacon contains zero dietary fiber, so it should be paired with high-fiber vegetables for a balanced meal.

What Are Net Carbs, and How Do They Differ from Total Carbs?

Before diving into bacon's specific nutritional values, it's helpful to understand the difference between total carbs and net carbs. Total carbohydrates refer to all the carbohydrate content in a food, including sugars, starches, and dietary fiber. Net carbs, on the other hand, are the carbohydrates that are absorbed and digested by the body and, therefore, affect blood sugar levels. They are calculated by subtracting the fiber (and sometimes sugar alcohols) from the total carbohydrate count.

Since standard bacon contains virtually no dietary fiber or sugar alcohols, its total carbohydrate count is nearly identical to its net carbohydrate count. The minimal carbs present come from the curing process, where some brands might use a tiny amount of added sugar. However, this amount is generally negligible and does not significantly impact the overall carb count.

The Low-Carb Profile of 3 Slices of Bacon

Three slices of standard, cooked pork bacon typically contain an impressively low amount of carbohydrates. This is why bacon has become a staple for many on keto and other low-carb diets. For those looking to keep their carb intake minimal, bacon serves as an excellent, high-fat, and moderate-protein source of energy.

Nutritional Breakdown of 3 Slices of Cooked Bacon

Based on data from nutritional databases like the USDA, here is a general breakdown for three pan-fried slices (approx. 35g):

Total Carbohydrates: ~0.6 grams
Net Carbohydrates: ~0.6 grams
Dietary Fiber: 0 grams
Sugars: 0 grams (in unsweetened varieties)
Protein: ~12 grams
Fat: ~12 grams
Calories: ~161 calories

It's crucial to always read the nutritional label, especially if you opt for flavored or cured bacon, which might have additional sugars. For example, maple-flavored bacon will have a higher carb and sugar content than plain cured bacon.

Cooking Method Matters for Overall Nutritional Impact

While the cooking method doesn't alter the intrinsic carbohydrate content of bacon, it does affect the fat and calorie levels. Different cooking techniques can render more or less fat from the bacon, changing the final nutritional profile slightly.

Comparison Table: Cooking Methods and Nutrition


Cooking Method	Fat Content	Calorie Impact	Net Carb Impact	Notes
Pan-Frying	Higher	Higher	Minimal	Renders some fat, but slices cook in their own grease. Excess fat can be drained to reduce calories.
Baking	Medium	Medium	Minimal	Cooks evenly on a rack, allowing fat to drip away. A leaner option than pan-frying.
Microwaving	Lower	Lower	Minimal	The leanest cooking method. Fat is absorbed by paper towels, significantly reducing total fat and calorie count.

Incorporating Bacon into a Healthy, Low-Carb Diet

While bacon is very low in carbs, it's still a processed meat high in saturated fat and sodium. A healthy diet, even a ketogenic one, requires balance. Here are some ways to incorporate bacon thoughtfully:

Pair with High-Fiber Vegetables: Enjoy your bacon with low-carb, high-fiber foods like spinach, avocado, or broccoli to create a balanced meal.
Use as a Flavoring Agent: Instead of the main course, use crumbled bacon as a garnish for salads, soups, or steamed vegetables to add a boost of flavor without overdoing the portion.
Choose Wisely: Opt for nitrate-free, sugar-free, or lower-sodium options when possible to minimize exposure to preservatives and additives.

The Role of Curing: Sugar vs. Sugar-Free

One of the most important factors influencing bacon's carb count is the curing process. Traditional curing methods use a mix of salt and sometimes sugar to preserve the meat and develop its flavor. While the amount of sugar absorbed is small, it's still a point of consideration for carb-conscious individuals.

Wet Curing vs. Dry Curing

Wet Curing: Most commercially available bacon is wet-cured via a brine injection. This method is efficient but can add moisture and potentially introduce a small amount of sugar. Always check the ingredients list for added sugars.
Dry Curing: A more traditional and time-intensive process, dry curing involves rubbing the pork belly with a salt and spice mixture. This often results in a richer flavor and is typically associated with sugar-free varieties. Some producers use natural nitrates from sources like celery powder.

Conclusion

In summary, three slices of standard, cooked pork bacon contain approximately 0.6 grams of net carbs, which is an extremely small amount. This makes bacon an excellent food for those managing their carbohydrate intake, including people on keto or other low-carb diets. To ensure you are minimizing hidden carbs, it is always recommended to check the product's nutrition label for added sugars, especially in flavored varieties. By being mindful of your portions and pairing bacon with nutrient-dense, low-carb foods, it can be a flavorful and satisfying component of a balanced dietary plan.

For more information on the ketogenic diet and what foods are compatible, visit Healthline's detailed beginner's guide to keto.

Frequently Asked Questions

While some brands use a small amount of sugar in the curing process, the quantity absorbed by the bacon is typically negligible. However, for strictest carb control, look for sugar-free or dry-cured options.

Bacon can be part of a keto diet, but it's important to consume it in moderation. It is high in saturated fat and sodium, so it should be balanced with other nutrient-rich foods.

Regular pork bacon typically has very few carbs. Turkey bacon may have slightly more due to added binders, while Canadian bacon is a leaner, low-carb option.

Bacon is a source of protein and some nutrients like B vitamins and selenium. However, as a processed meat high in fat and sodium, it is not recommended for daily consumption due to potential health risks, according to some health organizations.

You can reduce the calories by choosing a leaner cut or a different type of bacon, like turkey bacon. Cooking methods like microwaving or baking on a rack also help render off more fat compared to pan-frying.

Thick-cut bacon will have a similar carbohydrate profile per slice, but the net carb count for three slices will be slightly higher since the slice is heavier. Always check the nutrition facts on the package for the most accurate information.

No, liquid smoke is typically an additive for flavor and does not contain carbohydrates that would affect the net carb count of bacon.